Anti-diabetic extract isolated from Rauvolfia vomitoria and citrus aurantium, and method of using same

ABSTRACT

This invention provides a process for extracting a pharmaceutically active fraction from the foliage (leaves and stems) and/or roots of  Rauvolfia vomitoria  and the fruit of  Citrus aurantium . In one aspect, the process requires extracting from a boiled tea of  Rauvolfia vomitoria  foliage and/or roots and  Citrus aurantium  fruit an active fraction made by filtering the boiled tea and concentrating the supernatant. In one embodiment, the fraction is concentrated by freeze drying the supernatant. The fraction is useful to treat a disorder associated with abnormally elevated glucose levels in a subject by administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of the extract or a pharmaceutical composition containing the extract. Such conditions include, but are not limited to the diabetes Type II, abnormal steraroyl-CoA desaturase activity, hyperphagia, abnormal lipid mobilization, abnormal fatty acid profile from the eye of the subject, ulcers and a glucosuria.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 (e) to U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/623,640, filed Oct. 29, 2004, thecontents of which are hereby incorporated by reference into the presentdisclosure.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is in the field of pharmaceuticals. In particular,it is related to the field of anti-diabetic pharmaceuticals for theprevention and treatment of disease.

BACKGROUND

Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, makes glucose available tocells in the human body for the purpose of obtaining energy. Diabetesmellitus is primarily a disturbance of the body's glucose orcarbohydrate metabolism. In diabetes mellitus Type I, the pancreasproduces little insulin or it does not produce it at all. Treatmentrequires daily insulin injections so that a diabetic can survive. Indiabetes mellitus Type II, the pancreas produces insulin, but thequantity of insulin is insufficient or it is less effective due to thecellular resistance, or both. In each of these forms there are variousabnormalities, but the basic defects to which these abnormalities can beattributed are: (1) the reduced entering of glucose into various“peripheral” tissues; and (2) the increased releasing of glucose fromthe liver into the bloodstream (increased liver glucogenesis).

The World Health Organization (WHO) has estimated that 2 to 10 out ofevery 100 people will develop the condition during their lifetime andthat 90% of these will be of the Type II, late onset non-insulindependent diabetes mellitus. Nathan (1993) New Eng. J. Med.328:1676-1685. In Type II diabetes, the insulin stimulated glucoseuptake and utilization in liver, skeletal muscle and adipose tissue isimpaired. Zimmet (1982) Diabetologia 22:399-411. The defects can beimproved by caloric restriction and exercise. In the later stages of thedisease, the only recourse for patients is a life-long hypoglycemictherapy.

Currently approved treatments for Type II diabetes include theadministration of sulphonamides, biguanidines (Turner and Clapham (1998)Prog. Drug. Res. 51:33-94) and thiazolidinediones. Kohlroser et al.(2000) Am. J. Gast. 96:272-276. The drawbacks of the currently availabledrugs include harmful side effects and numerous counter indications(e.g. impossibility of application in pregnancy and during the sucklingperiod), as well as their ineffectiveness in stemming the tissuecomplications that arise from long-term Type II diabetes. Therefore, newtherapies are under investigation, e.g., the administration of herbalextracts.

For example, U.S. Patent Publ. No. 20030206976 discloses an herbalextract from a composition which contains: Centaurii umbellatum,Gentianaceae (centaury plant), Teraxacum officinale, Asteraceae(dandelion root), Juniperi communis L, Cupresaceae (juniper berry),Urticae dioica L, Urticeae (nettle plant), Urticae dioica L, Urticaceae(nettle root), Cichorium intybus L, Cichoriaceae (chicory root), Morusnigra L, Moraceae, (mulberry leaf), Achilleae millefolium L, Asteraceae(yarrow flower), Vaccinium myrtillus L, Ericaceae (bilberry leaf),Phaseolus vulgaris L, Fabaceae (bean pods), Valeriana officinalis L,Valerlanaceae (Valerian root). The extract is used to treat diabetesmellitus Type II.

U.S. Patent Publ. No. 20030086985 discloses a process for isolating anextract from Argyrobium roseum that contains the flavonoid glycoside andwhich possesses hypoglycaemic activity. Compositions containing thisextract are useful to treat various hyperglycaemic conditions includingnon-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus disease. U.S. Patent Publication20020187201 discloses a process for the control of diabetes mellitususing natural products isolated from Perna viridis.

However, a need still exists to find a composition and treatment withlong-term effects. The invention described here satisfies this need andprovides related advantages as well.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

This invention provides a process for extracting a pharmaceuticallyactive fraction from the foliage (leaves and stems) and/or roots ofRauvolfia vomitoria and the fruit of Citrus aurantium. In one aspect,the process requires extracting from a boiled tea of Rauvolfia vomitoriafoliage and/or roots and Citrus aurantium fruit an active fraction madeby filtering the boiled tea and concentrating the supernatant. In oneembodiment, the fraction is concentrated by freeze drying thesupernatant.

Also provided by this invention is a method of treating a disorderassociated with abnormally elevated glucose levels in a subject byadministering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of theextract or a pharmaceutical composition containing the extract. Suchconditions include, but are not limited to the diabetes Type II,abnormal steraroyl-CoA desaturase activity, hyperphagia, abnormal lipidmobilization, abnormal fatty acid profile from the eye of the subject,ulcers and a glucosuria.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 compares total fatty acid (Total FA) and the different fatty acidsubclass contents (saturated fatty acids, SFA; MUFA and PUFA) in adiposetissue (A), eye (B), skeletal muscle (C), pancreas (D),liver-triglyceride fraction (E) and liver-phopholipid fraction (F),respectively from lean, obese and diabetic C57BL mice. Data areexpressed as mean±SEM values. Significant difference of data from obeseand diabetic mice from that in the lean controls is expressed as*=P<0.05; **=P<0.01; ***=P<0.001.

FIG. 2 compares estimated stearoyl-CoA desaturase activity (calculatedas oleic acid to stearic acid ratios) in adipose tissue (A), eye (B),skeletal muscle (C), pancreas (D), liver-triglyceride (E) andliver-phopholipid fraction (F), respectively in lean, obese and diabeticmice. Data are expressed as mean±SEM values. Significant difference ofdata from obese and diabetic mice from that in the lean controls isexpressed as *=P<0.05; **=P<0.01;***=P<0.001.

FIG. 3 compares the essential fatty acid contents (Linoleic acid, LA;Alpha-Linolenic acid, Alpha-LE; Arachidonic acid, AA; and docosahexanoicacid, DHA) in adipose tissue (A), eye (B), skeletal muscle (C), pancreas(D), liver-triglyceride fraction (E) and liver-phopholipid fraction (F),respectively from lean, obese and diabetic mice. Data are expressed asmean±SEM values. Significant difference of data from obese and diabeticmice from that in the lean controls is expressed as *=P<0.05; **=P<0.01;***=P<0.001.

FIG. 4 compares estimated Δ6 desaturase activity (calculated as a ratioof the sum of α-linolenic acid, dihomogamalinolenic acid and arachidonicacid to linoleic acid content) in adipose tissue (A), eye (B), skeletalmuscle (C), pancreas (D), liver-triglyceride fraction (E) andliver-phopholipid fraction (F), respectively in lean, obese and diabeticmice. Data are expressed as mean±SEM values. Significant difference ofdata from obese and diabetic mice from that in the lean controls isexpressed as *=P<0.05; **=P<0.01; ***=P<0.001.

FIG. 5 shows the effect of the Rauvolfia-Citrus extract on body weightof 11 weeks old lean C57BL/6J mice, following a single administration ofa 70× human-daily-dose.

FIG. 6 shows the effect of the Rauvolfia-Citrus extract on water (A) andfood (B) intake in 11 weeks old lean C57BL/6J mice, following a singleadministration of a 70× human-daily-dose.

FIG. 7 shows the effect of the Rauvolfia-Citrus extract on body weightof 11 weeks old diabetic obese C57BL/KsBom-db/db mice, followingtreatment with a daily application of 7× human-daily-dose for 6 weeks.

FIG. 8 shows the effect of the Rauvolfia-Citrus extract on food (A) andwater (B) intake in 11 weeks old diabetic C57BL/KsBom-d/db mice,following treatment with a daily application of 7× maximum human-dailydose for 6 weeks.

FIG. 9 shows the effect of the Rauvolfia-Citrus extract treatment on (A)Fatty acid content; (B) Essential fatty acid content and (C) EstimatedStearoyl-CoA and delta6 desaturase activities in the eye of control(n=9) and treated (n=10) bred diabetic C57BL/KsBom-db mice after the 6week treatment period. Data are expressed as mean±SEM values.Significant difference of data from treated mice to that in theuntreated controls is expressed as *=P<0.05; **=P<0.01.

FIG. 10 shows the progression in blood sugar levels of a human casestudy expressed as a function of treatment period.

MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Throughout this disclosure, various publications, patents and publishedpatent specifications are referenced by an identifying citation. Thedisclosures of these publications, patents and published patentspecifications are hereby incorporated by reference into the presentdisclosure to more fully describe the state of the art to which thisinvention pertains.

The practice of the present invention employs, unless otherwiseindicated, conventional techniques of organic chemistry, analyticalchemistry, biochemistry and physiology, which are within the skill ofthe art. Such techniques are explained fully in the literature.

DEFINITIONS

As used herein, certain terms may have the following defined meanings.

As used in the specification and claims, the singular form “a,” “an” and“the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictatesotherwise. For example, the term “a cell” includes a plurality of cells,including mixtures thereof.

As used herein, the term “comprising” is intended to mean that thecompositions and methods include the recited elements, but not excludingothers. “Consisting essentially of” when used to define compositions andmethods, shall mean excluding other elements of any essentialsignificance to the combination. Thus, a composition consistingessentially of the elements as defined herein would not exclude tracecontaminants from the isolation and purification method andpharmaceutically acceptable carriers, such as phosphate buffered saline,preservatives, and the like. “Consisting of” shall mean excluding morethan trace elements of other ingredients and substantial method stepsfor administering the compositions of this invention. Embodimentsdefined by each of these transition terms are within the scope of thisinvention.

All numerical designations, e.g., pH, temperature, time, concentration,and molecular weight, including ranges, are approximations which arevaried (+) or (−) by increments of 0.1. It is to be understood, althoughnot always explicitly stated that all numerical designations arepreceded by the term “about”. It also is to be understood, although notalways explicitly stated, that the reagents described herein are merelyexemplary and that equivalents of such are well known in the art.

The term “isolated” means separated from constituents, cellular andotherwise, in which the compound, composition or extract, is normallyassociated with in nature.

A “subject” or “host” is a vertebrate, preferably an animal or mammal,more preferably a human patient. Mammals include, but are not limitedto, murines, rats, simians, human patients, farm animals, sport animals,and pets.

As used herein, to “treat” includes systemic amelioration of thesymptoms associated with the pathology and/or a delay in onset ofsymptoms. Clinical and sub-clinical evidence of “treatment” will varywith the pathology, the individual and the treatment. For example,administration for the treatment of diabetic conditions can result inlowering blood glucose levels and cessation of glycosurea. In oneaspect, “treatment” also includes “curing”. Applicant shows thatpatients taking the extract for a period from about 30 days to about 180days, (or alternatively from about 60 days to about 120 days) forexample, often are not required to repeat the treatment. They remainsymptom-free without the need for continuous treatment.

A “composition” is intended to mean a combination of active agent andanother compound or composition, inert (for example, a detectable agentor label) or active, such as an adjuvant.

A “pharmaceutical composition” is intended to include the combination ofan active agent with a carrier, inert or active, making the compositionsuitable for diagnostic or therapeutic use in vitro, in vivo or ex vivo.

As used herein, the term “pharmaceutically acceptable carrier”encompasses any of the standard pharmaceutical carriers, such as aphosphate buffered saline solution, water, and emulsions, such as anoil/water or water/oil emulsion, and various types of wetting agents.The compositions also can include stabilizers and preservatives. Forexamples of carriers, stabilizers and adjuvants, see Martin REMINGTON'SPHARM. Sd., 15th Ed. (Mack Publ. Co., Easton (1975)).

An “effective amount” is an amount sufficient to effect beneficial ordesired results. For example, a therapeutic amount is one that achievesthe desired therapeutic effect. This amount may be the same or differentfrom a prophylatically effective amount, which is an amount necessary toprevent onset of disease or disease symptoms. An effective amount can beadministered in one or more administrations, applications or dosages.

“Type I diabetes mellitus” (formerly called type I, IDDM or juvenilediabetes)” is characterized by beta cell destruction caused by anautoimmune process, usually leading to absolute insulin deficiency.Report of the Expert Committee on the Diagnosis and Classification ofDiabetes Mellitus. Diabetes Care (1997) 20:1183-97 (hereinafter “ExpertReport (1997)). National Diabetes Data Group. Diabetes in America. 2ded. Bethesda, Md.: National Institutes of Health, National Institute ofDiabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, (1995) NIH Publication No.95-1468 (hereinafter “NIH (1995)”). The onset is usually acute,developing over a period of a few days to weeks. Over 95 percent ofpersons with Type I diabetes mellitus develop the disease before the ageof 25, with an equal incidence in both sexes and an increased prevalencein the white population. A family history of Type I diabetes mellitus,gluten enteropathy (celiac disease) or other endocrine disease is oftenfound. Most of these patients have the “immune-mediated form” of Type Idiabetes mellitus with islet cell antibodies and often have otherautoimmune disorders such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Addison's disease,vitiligo or pernicious anemia. A few patients, usually those of Africanor Asian origin, have no antibodies but have a similar clinicalpresentation; consequently, they are included in this classification andtheir disease is called the “idiopathic form” of Type I diabetesmellitus. Expert Report (1997) and NIH (1995).

“Type 2 diabetes mellitus” (formerly called NIDDM, Type II oradult-onset) is characterized by insulin resistance in peripheral tissueand an insulin secretory defect of the beta cell. Expert Report (1997)and NIH (1995). This is the most common form of diabetes mellitus and ishighly associated with a family history of diabetes, older age, obesityand lack of exercise. It is more common in women, especially women witha history of gestational diabetes, and in blacks, Hispanics and NativeAmericans. Insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia eventually lead toimpaired glucose tolerance. Defective beta cells become exhausted,further fueling the cycle of glucose intolerance and hyperglycemia. Theetiology of Type II diabetes mellitus is multifactorial and probablygenetically based, but it also has strong behavioral components.

Types of diabetes mellitus of various known etiologies are groupedtogether to form the classification called “other specific types.” Thisgroup includes persons with genetic defects of beta-cell function (thistype of diabetes was formerly called MODY or maturity-onset diabetes inyouth) or with defects of insulin action; persons with diseases of theexocrine pancreas, such as pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis; persons withdysfunction associated with other endocrinopathies (e.g., acromegaly);and persons with pancreatic dysfunction caused by drugs, chemicals orinfections. Expert Report (1997) and NIH (1995).

Applicant has identified a process for extracting a pharmaceuticallyactive fraction from the foliage (leaves and stems) and/or roots ofRauvolfia vomitoria and the fruit of Citrus aurantium. In one aspect,the process requires extracting from a boiled tea of Rauvolfia vomitoriafoliage and/or roots and Citrus aurantium fruit an active fraction madeby filtering the boiled tea and concentrating the supernatant. In oneembodiment, the fraction is concentrated by freeze drying thesupernatant.

Rauvolfia vomitoria occurs widely in coastal and inland parts oftropical West Africa. The species is a well-known medicinal plant usedby different peoples in Africa as the major or minor part of concoctionsused for treating various ailments. Sofowora, Medicinal Plants andTraditional Medicine in Africa, Wiley and Sons, Chichester (1982);Burkill, The Useful Plants of Tropical West Africa, Vol. 1 (1985).Rauvolfia vomitoria was previously investigated for alkaloid content,especially for those with hypotensive and anti-inflammatory properties.Chatterjee & Bandyopadhyay (1979) Ind. J. Chem. 28B: 87-88; Amer & Court(1980) Phytochemistry 19: 1833-1836; Kweifio-Okai (1991) J. EthnoPharmacology 33: 263-267. Citrus aurantium is reported as having aweight reduction effect when combined with a strict diet. Preuss et al.(2002) J. Med. 33:247-264. In addition, C. aurantium has been shown tobe radioprotective because it is rich in flavonoids with anti-oxidativeactivity. Hosseinimehr et al. (2003) J. Rad. Res. (Tokyo) 44:237-241.

This invention provides a biologically active composition consistingessentially of a liquid extract obtained from Rauvolfia vomitoria andCitrus aurantium. In one aspect, the extract is separated from theboiled leaves and stems of Rauvolfia vomitoria and the boiled fruit ofCitrus aurantium. The extract can be combined with a carrier, such as apharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Alternatively and/or additionally,an effective amount of an agent that lowers blood glucose levels can beadded to the composition.

This invention also provides a method of treating a disorder associatedwith abnormally elevated glucose levels in a subject by administering tothe subject a therapeutically effective amount of the extract or apharmaceutical composition containing the extract. As used in thiscontext, to “treat” means to alleviate the symptoms associated withabnormally high levels of glucose. Such conditions include, but are notlimited to the diabetes Type II, abnormal steraroyl-CoA desaturaseactivity, hyperphagia, abnormal lipid mobilization, abnormal fatty acidprofile from the eye of the subject, ulcers and a glucosuria. One ofskill in the art can note when the object of the method has beenobtained by noting a reduction in glucose in the patient's blood orurine or an amelioration of symptoms such as normalization of bloodpressure, disappearance of bulbous swellings around varicose veins, etc.

Any mode of administration can be used to deliver the extract. It can beadded to a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and systemically, orally,transdermally or topically administered to the subject. Therapeuticamounts can be empirically determined and will vary with the pathologybeing treated, the subject being treated and the toxicity of the form ofthe active fraction used in the therapeutic method. Active extract,fractions, compounds or compositions comprising one or more of the samein various forms can be delivered orally, intravenously,intraperitoneally, or transdermally. When delivered to an animal, themethod is useful to further confirm efficacy of the extract, fraction,compound or composition comprising one or more of the same, for thedisease sought to be treated. Appropriate animal models are known in theart. For the purpose of illustration only, an appropriate animal modelis described in Experiment No. 1, infra. Using the animal modeldescribed in Experiment No. 1, Applicant noted that a single dosagecorresponding to 70× the human daily dose was found to be non-toxic whenapplied per oral to 6 week-old outbred NMRI lean mice or 6 week to 11week-old inbred C57BL/6J lean mice. The treatment regime consisted ofapplying a daily dose of a 7× human-daily-dose to the C57BL/KsBom-db(db/db) mice per oral for 6 weeks. During treatment, the test andcontrol animals were maintained on the carbohydrate and fat-deficientAltromin C1009 diet. The extract lowered hyperphagia and facilitatedweight loss in the treated Type II diabetes mouse model. Although theweight loss was not statistically significant, the treated animals had asignificantly higher serum triglyceride content as compared to thecontrol group showing that the treatment induced lipid mobilization frominternal stores in the animals placed on severe calorie restriction. Inaddition, the fatty acid profile of the eye from the treated animalsshowed a significant reduction in total fatty acids and in all the majorsubclasses of lipids, a 33% reduction in estimated Stearoyl-CoAdesaturase activity (P=0.039, compared with the untreated controls).Interestingly, the fatty acid mobilization that was observed at the endof the 6-week treatment was maintained after cessation of treatment fora further 5 weeks if the treated animals were maintained under calorierestriction. This coincided with an observed protection of the “brittle”pancreas in the db/db mice. In contrast treated mice that were later fedthe richer standard Altromin 1314 diet post-treatment, lost theseadvantages.

Administration in vivo can be effected in one dose, continuously orintermittently throughout the course of treatment. Methods ofdetermining the most effective means and dosage of administration arewell known to those of skill in the art and will vary with thecomposition used for therapy, the purpose of the therapy, the targetcell being treated, and the subject being treated. Single or multipleadministrations can be carried out with the dose level and pattern beingselected by the treating physician. Suitable dosage formulations andmethods of administering the agents can be found below.

The extracts, fractions, compounds, compositions and pharmaceuticalformulations of the present invention can be used in the manufacture ofmedicaments, food and health supplements, and for the treatment ofhumans and other animals by administration in accordance withconventional procedures, such as an active ingredient in pharmaceuticalcompositions.

It will be appreciated that appropriate dosages of the compounds andcompositions of the invention may depend on the type and severity andstage of the disease and can vary from patient to patient. Determiningthe optimal dosage will generally involve the balancing of the level oftherapeutic benefit against any risk or deleterious side effects of thetreatments of the present invention. The extract, fraction, compound orcomposition comprising one or more of the same, compositions can beadministered orally, intranasally, parenterally or by inhalationtherapy, for example. It may be formulated into any suitable deliverymeans, examples of which include but are not limited to tablets,lozenges, granules, capsules, pills, ampoules, suppositories or aerosolform. They may also take the form of suspensions, solutions andemulsions of the active ingredient in aqueous or nonaqueous diluents,syrups, granulates or powders. In addition to active agent or extract ofthe present invention, the pharmaceutical compositions can also containother pharmaceutically active compounds or a plurality of compounds ofthe invention.

A tablet may be made by compression or molding, optionally with one ormore accessory ingredients. Compressed tablets may be prepared bycompressing in a suitable machine the active ingredient in afree-flowing form such as a powder or granules, optionally mixed with abinder (e.g., povidone, gelatin, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose),lubricant, inert diluent, preservative, disintegrant (e.g., sodiumstarch glycolate, cross-linked povidone, cross-linked sodiumcarboxymethyl cellulose) surface-active or dispersing agent. Moldedtablets may be made by molding in a suitable machine a mixture of thepowdered compound moistened with an inert liquid diluent. The tabletsmay optionally be coated or scored and may be formulated so as toprovide slow or controlled release of the active ingredient thereinusing, for example, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose in varying proportionsto provide the desired release profile. Tablets may optionally beprovided with an enteric coating, to provide release in parts of the gutother than the stomach.

Pharmaceutical compositions for topical administration according to thepresent invention may be formulated as an ointment, cream, suspension,lotion, powder, solution, paste, gel, spray, aerosol or oil.Alternatively, a formulation may comprise a patch or a dressing such asa bandage or adhesive plaster impregnated with active ingredients andoptionally one or more excipients or diluents. Formulations suitable fortopical administration in the mouth also include lozenges comprising theactive ingredient in a flavored basis, usually sucrose and acacia ortragacanth; pastilles comprising the active ingredient in an inert basissuch as gelatin and glycerin, or sucrose and acacia; and mouthwashescomprising the active ingredient in a suitable liquid carrier.

Formulations suitable for vaginal administration may be presented aspessaries, tampons, creams, gels, pastes, foams or spray formulationscontaining in addition to the active ingredient, such carriers as areknown in the art to be appropriate.

Formulations suitable for nasal administration, wherein the carrier is asolid, include a coarse powder having a particle size, for example, inthe range of about 20 to about 500 microns which is administered in themanner in which snuff is taken, i.e., by rapid inhalation through thenasal passage from a container of the powder held close up to the nose.Suitable formulations wherein the carrier is a liquid for administrationas, for example, nasal spray, nasal drops, or by aerosol administrationby nebulizer, include aqueous or oily solutions of the activeingredient.

Formulations suitable for parenteral administration include aqueous andnon-aqueous isotonic sterile injection solutions which may containanti-oxidants, buffers, bacteriostats and solutes which render theformulation isotonic with the blood of the intended recipient; andaqueous and non-aqueous sterile suspensions which may include suspendingagents and thickening agents, and liposomes or other microparticulatesystems which are designed to target the compound to blood components orone or more organs. The formulations may be presented in unit-dose ormulti-dose sealed containers, for example, ampoules and vials, and maybe stored in a freeze-dried (lyophilized) condition requiring only theaddition of the sterile liquid carrier, for example water forinjections, immediately prior to use. Extemporaneous injection solutionsand suspensions may be prepared from sterile powders, granules andtablets of the kind previously described.

Preferred unit dosage formulations are those containing a daily dose orunit, daily subdose, as herein above recited, or an appropriate fractionthereof, of a drug ingredient.

It should be understood that in addition to the ingredients particularlymentioned above, the formulations of this invention may include otherbio-active agents conventional in the art having regard to the type offormulation in question. For the purpose of illustration only, suchadditional bio-active agents include, but are not limited tosulphonylureas, e.g. chlorpropamide (the trade name: Meldijan, etc.),carbutamides (some 40 trade names), glybenchlamides (trade names:Euglukon, Glibenklamid Genericon, etc.) and biguanides which includes,e.g. phenyl-ethyl-biguanide (trade names: Phenformin, DB-Comb, etc.) aswell as dimethyl-biguanides (trade names: Gluchopage, etc.). In yet afurther embodiment, additional agents suitable of oral administrationmay be included in the compositions and formulations, e.g., sweeteners,thickeners and flavoring agents.

The extract, fraction, compound or composition comprising one or more ofthe same, may also be presented for use in the form of veterinaryformulations, which may be prepared, for example, by methods that areconventional in the art.

This invention further provides a method for screening for a therapeuticagent for treating or ameliorating the symptoms associated with abnormalblood glucose, e.g., abnormally high levels of blood glucose such asthat experienced by diabetic patients, by comparing the activity of apotential therapeutic against the therapeutic activity of the extract ofthis invention. In one aspect, the patient is suffering from diabetesType II. The assay can also be used to screen new or alternativeformulations or combinations of the extract with another active agent ortherapeutic. The screen requires (a) the administration of the potentialagent to a suitable animal model and (b) administering an effectiveamount of the extract, or a pharmaceutically acceptable compositioncontaining the extract, to another suitable animal. The biomarkers ofthe therapeutic response of the animal(s) of step (a) to those of step(b) are compared. If any agent of step (a) provides a therapeuticresponse that is the same or similar extent as the model of step (b), itis a therapeutic agent for treating or ameliorating the symptomsassociated with abnormal blood glucose in an animal. Suitable animalmodels include, but are not limited to the animal model described inExperiment No. 1, infra. or a human patient, e.g., a diabetic humanpatient.

Also provided is the use of the extract in the manufacture of amedicament for the treatment of diabetes.

A kit for treating or ameliorating the symptoms associated with abnormalblood glucose, e.g., abnormally high levels of blood glucose, also isprovided by this invention. The kit includes a therapeutically effectiveamount of the extract and instructions for use. The kit is useful totreat disorders selected from the group consisting of Type II diabetes,abnormal steraroyl-CoA desaturase activity, hyperphagia, abnormal lipidmobilization, abnormal fatty acid profile from the eye of the subject,ulcers and glucosuria.

The following examples are intended to illustrate, but not limit theinvention.

EXAMPLES

Experiment No. 1—A Novel Animal Model

Lipids constitute a major part of living cells where they provide thephysical barrier that compartmentalizes cells and serve as a majorstorage form of energy in the liver and adipose tissue. Membrane lipidsdo not just form an inert framework for cells. Rather, fundamental rolesare now recognized for membrane lipids and their bioactive derivativesin cell function, especially in the responses of the cell to externalstimuli from hormones, neurotransmitters and growth factors. It istherefore not surprising that alterations in membrane lipid compositionhave been associated with specific disease conditions such as cysticfibrosis (Freedman et al. (2004) New Eng. J. Med. 350: 560-569),diabetes and obesity. Vessby B. (2000) Brit. J. Nutr. 83 Suppl.: S91-96.

However, there are conflicting reports in the literature as to theextent of the alterations and as to which tissue or organs best manifestthe modifications. While increases in the saturated fatty acid (SFA) andthe lower molecular weight polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) contentshave been associated with altered skeletal muscle insulin responsivenessin man, Clore et al. ((2000) Metabolism: Clinical and Experimental49:2332-238) found an increase in the long chain PUFA (e.g. Arachidonicacid) and a lower linoleic acid content in serum of diabetics ascompared to samples taken from healthy controls.

In order to establish the status of some of the parameters associatedwith lipid homeostasis in Type II diabetes model mice, the fatty acid(FA) content of tissues implicated in the pathophysiology of diabetes inmice was investigated. The tissue fatty acid composition of thegenetically bred diabetic (db/db) and obese (ob/ob) mice with those fromlean mice of the same age and fed on the same diet were studied. Thetissues investigated for their FA profiles include adipose tissue, eye,liver, pancreas and skeletal muscle. The results show that while therewas an accumulation of lipids in most of the different tissues from theobese mice, there was selectiveness in the deposition of lipids in theadipose tissue, eye and muscle of the diabetic mice, and suggestedincrease in stearoyl-CoA desaturase activity in the latter two tissues.

Experiment No. 1—Procedures

Animals

The study was performed under the guidelines approved by the DanishAnimal Care and Use license. The experimental animals were malegenetically bred C57BL/6Jbom-ob/ob (obese, n=4), C57BL/KsBom-db/db(diabetic, n=3) mice and the lean C57BL/6J inbred strain (n=4). Theanimals were purchased from Bomholtgaard Breeding and Research CentreLtd., Ry, Denmark when they were 13 weeks old. The animals were kept ingroups of 3-4 mice per cage, maintained on Altromin 1320 standardmaintenance diet and housed in a room kept at 25° C. with a 12 h darkand 12 h light cycle.

Sample Collection

When the animals were 23 weeks old, they were fasted overnight. On thenext day, the animals were weighed, ether anaesthetized and bloodsamples were collected by orbital puncture, before the animals weresacrificed. The blood samples were allowed to clot at room temperature(about an hour) and cleared serum samples were collected afterhigh-speed centrifugation (3000 g) at 4° C. for 30 min. Serum insulinand glucagon contents were determined using Radio ImmunoAssay (“RIA”)Kits, (Linco Research, Inc. Missouri, USA). Samples of the eye, liver(left anterior lobe), pancreas, skeletal leg muscle, and adipose tissue(around the testis) were taken from each of the animals and immediatelyfrozen in liquid nitrogen and stored at −70° C.

FA Analysis

The total lipids in the tissues were extracted with chloroform/methanol,methylated and analysed by gas-liquid chromatography in a HewlettPackard 5890 series II Chromatograph with flame-ionisation detection(Hewlett-Packard GmbH, Waldbronn, Germany), essentially as by describedby Staarup and Hoy (2000) J. Nutr. 130:2802-2808. Briefly, the apparatuswas fitted with a 60 m fused silica capillary column (SP-2380) and theinjector and detector temperature were at 270° C. The carrier gas washelium. The initial oven temperature was 70° C. for 0.5 min and thetemperature programming was as follows: 15° C. min⁻¹ to 160° C., 1.5° C.min⁻¹ to 200° C., maintained for 15 min, and 30° C. min⁻¹ to 225° C.,which was kept for 5 min.

The amount of each type of fatty acid (% wt content of fatty acidmultiplied by μg total fat per mg tissue) was quantified for thedifferent tissues. The sum of the saturated fatty acids (SAT),monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) and PUFA were calculated for eachsample and expressed as μg fatty acid mg⁻¹ tissue (or mg fatty acid mg⁻¹tissue for adipose tissue). The activities of selected enzymes involvedin fatty acid biosynthesis were estimated as the product to precursorratios of the percentages of the individual fatty acids. The estimatedfatty acid-related metabolic processes included the delta9 orStearoyl-CoA desaturase activity estimated as the ratio of oleic acid [C18:1 (n-9)] to stearic acid (C18:0) ratio, and delta6 desaturase thatwas calculated as the ratio of the sum of γ-linolenic acid (LNA,[C18:3(n-6)], dihomogamalinolenic acid (DGLA, [C20:3(n-6)] andArachidonic acid (AA, [C20:4(n-6)]) to linoleic acid [C18:2(n-6)].

Statistics

The values are expressed as mean±standard errors. Statisticaldifferences in the data were tested using ANOVA (non-paired t-tests) inMicrosoft Excel. Values of p<0.05 were considered significant.

Results

Body Weights, Serum Insulin and Glucagon Levels

The body weights, serum insulin and glucagon levels from the mice arepresented in table 1. As expected, the ob/ob mice showed significantincreases in body weight, when compared to the lean mice. There was nosignificant difference between the mean body weight of the diabetic miceand their lean counterparts. The ob/ob and db/db mice show the increasedlevels of insulin and glucagon and that are typical for the breeds (5);compare normal fasting ranges that are 0.5-2 ng/ml for insulin, and50-150 pg/ml for glucagon, respectively. TABLE 1 Body weight, seruminsulin and glucagon of the mice (expressed ±SEM) Lean mice C57 Obesemice Diabetic mice BL/6J ob/ob db/db (n = 4) (n = 4) (n = 3) Body weight(g) 34.7 ± 0.5 65.2 ± 1.0 * 34.9 ± 6.9 Serum insulin  0.66 ± 0.30 130 ±37 *     7.4 ± 2.64 ^(a) (ng ml⁻¹) Serum glucagon 179 ± 15 233 ± 15 *  439 ± 116 ^(a)   (pg ml⁻¹)* P < 0.05.^(a) The analysis was carried out on serum obtained from only 2 of thedb/db mice.Genetically Obese and Diabetic Mice Tissues Differ in howMonounsaturated Fatty Acids are Accumulated

The relative amounts of the major classes of fatty acids for the adiposetissue, eye, skeletal muscle, pancreas, liver-triacylglyceride(liver-TAG fraction) and liver-phospholipid (liver-PL fraction) from thedifferent mice are presented in FIGS. 1A, B, C, D, E and F,respectively. Generally, there was an increase in the total fatty acidsand in particular SFA and MUFA in the tissues from the obese mice, ascompared to that in both the lean and diabetic mice tissues. Thus, withthe exception of the eye, significant increases in SFA and MUFAaccumulation were observed in the obese mice tissues in comparison withvalues in the lean mice. Interestingly, the genetically diabetic miceonly showed a significant increase in FA accumulation (especially MUFA)in adipose tissue, the skeletal muscle and in the eye, when compared tothe FA content in the lean mice tissues (FIG. 1B).

Estimated Stearoyl CoA Desaturase Activity is Increased Differentiallyin ob/ob and db/db Mice Tissues

In line with the above observations of MUFA accumulation, there was anincrease in the calculated stearoyl CoA desaturase activity in most ofthe tissues from the obese mice (FIGS. 2A, B, C, D, E and F). For thediabetic mice, a significant increase in delta9 desaturation was onlyassociated with the eye and skeletal muscle, which also had a markedaccumulation of MUFAs (see above).

Genetically Obese and Diabetic Mice Differ in How and in What Type ofPolyunsaturated Fatty Acids are Accumulated in Tissues

The PUFA fraction was significantly increased in the pancreas, liver-TAGfraction and the skeletal muscle from the ob/ob mice when compared withthe levels in the lean mice (see FIGS. 1 and 3). In the db/db mice, asignificant PUFA increase was also evident in the skeletal muscle. Whileboth the long and short chain forms of the PUFAs were accumulated in theobese mice tissues, the increase in the PUFA fraction in the diabeticmice muscle was mainly due to an accumulation of the short chain LA andalpha-linolenic acid (FIG. 3). Although the accumulation of theprecursor n-6 LA did not coincide with a significant reduction in thelonger chain n-6 product arachidonic acid (AA) in the db/db mice ascompared with the lean mice, there was a significant reduction in thelong chain n-3 DHA in the skeletal muscle and in other tissues from thedb/db mice. The only exception here was the db/db pancreas thatcontained significantly higher amounts of DHA than was observed in thepancreas from the lean control animals (see FIG. 3).

Estimated Delta6 Desaturase Activity is Reduced in the Eye and SkeletalMuscle of the db/db Mice.

With the exception of the pancreas and liver PL fraction, there was areduction in the estimated delta6 desaturation activity in the tissuesfrom the db/db mice (FIGS. 4A, B, C, D, E, and F). The reduction indelta6 desaturation could not be verified with an estimate of the delta4desaturation (calculated as the ratio of DHA [C22:6(n-3)] todocosapentanoic acid DPA [C20:5(n-3)], as several of the tissues fromthe diabetic mice lacked detectible levels of DPA. However, thereduction in delta6 desaturation does coincide with significantreductions in DHA levels in the diabetic mice. In the obese mice,reductions in estimated delta6 activity were also calculated for thepancreas and liver-TAG fraction, while an increase was predicted for theadipose tissue and the liver-PL fraction (FIGS. 4D and E).

DISCUSSION OF RESULTS

The liver and adipose tissue constitute the major tissues for storage,processing and distribution of caloric fuels in mammals. Under normalconditions, there is a dynamic interplay between these and other tissuesin the body that is highly responsive to certain hormones andco-factors, and ensures that mammalian tissues maintain a constant flowof energy-rich fuels despite intermittent fasting periods. Type IIdiabetes or NIDDM results from a malfunction in the body's energymetabolism. The metabolic disturbances characteristic of NIDDM areincreasingly being closely linked with alterations in lipid metabolismand obesity. Vessby (2000) New Eng. J. Med. 350:560-569; McGarry (1992)Science 258:766-770. Obesity is characterised by an increasedaccumulation of tissue lipids.

This experiment shows that there is a clear distinction in tissue lipiddistributions in the genetically diabetic db/db mice with a severe formof NIDDM and in the genetically obese ob/ob mice with the milder form ofType II diabetes, when compared to their lean counterparts. While theob/ob mice accumulated SFA and MUFA in all the tissues examined with theexception of the eye, the accumulation of MUFA in the db/db mice wasrestricted to adipose tissue, the eye and skeletal muscle. Thus, theliver in severe mice diabetes appears to be spared against lipidaccumulation. Instead, the excessively generated MUFA is deposited inother non-adipose tissue, such as the eye and muscle (see Table 2).Whereas diabetic retinopathy and its often associated lipid deposit onthe retina have been reported (Curtis & Scholfield (2004)Diabetes-Metab. Res. 20:28-43), this distinction in eye tissue lipidaccumulation between the ob/ob (representing mild NIDDM state) and db/dbmice (representing severe NIDDM state) has not been documented in theliterature.

Saturated fatty acids such as palmitic acid (C16:0) and stearic acid(C18:0) are synthesised in mammalian cells by the enzyme complex, FAsynthetase (FAS) which uses the building blocks generated by the ratelimiting enzyme, acetyl CoA carboxylase. As stearic acid and to a lesserextent palmitic acid, are water insoluble (Kim & Ntambi (1999) Biochem.Biophys. Res. Comm. 266:1-4), the end products of de novo FAbiosynthesis in mammals are often converted to their MUFA forms, oleicacid (C 18:1) and palmitoleic acid (C16:1), respectively by stearoyl-CoAdesaturase. Enoch et al. (1976) J. Biol. Chem. 251:5059-5103. However,in the high fat-diet that is common in most developed nations, some ofthe excess fat that is consumed is not catabolized, but simply stored intissues. Indeed, de novo FA synthesis and remodelling bydeacylation/reacylation of existing lipids occur at similar rates in rathepatocytes. Schmid et al. (1995) Arch. Biochem. Biophys. 319:168-176.In this study, the estimated stearoyl-CoA desaturase activity wasenhanced in the tissues (with the exception of the eye) from the obesemice. In the diabetic mice, the increase in stearoyl-CoA desaturaseactivity was only associated with the eye and muscle (namely in two ofthe tissues with increased MUFA accumulation). A central role for theenzyme in FA accumulation in obesity and in the development of Type IIdiabetes has been confirmed by the finding that the loss of one of thetwo mice SCD genes led to a reduction in body adiposity and resistanceto diet-induced weight gain. Ntambi et al. (2002) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci.USA 99:11482-11486. In addition, the SCD1 −/− animals had increasedinsulin sensitivity resulting from an elevation in cellular factorsinvolved in insulin signaling. Rahman et al. (2003) Proc. Natl. Acad.Sci. USA 100:11110-11115. Indeed the anti-Type II diabetes drugs,thiazolidinediones have been shown to exert part of their anti-diabeticeffects via the PPARγ receptor by repressing SCD1 gene expression.Kurebayashi et al. (1997) Diabetes 46:2115-2118.

One of the long-term complications associated with NIDDM is poor woundhealing. Colville-Nash & Willoughby (1997) Mol. Med. Today 3:14-23.Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are important precursors for severaleicosanoids and docosanoids that have pro-inflammatory andanti-inflammatory effects, respectively. Hence, the alterations in theEFAs in the two NIDDM model mice were examined. The PUFA fraction isincreased in the pancreas, liver-TAG and skeletal muscle, but reduced inthe liver-PL fraction of the ob/ob mice, as compared to the lean mice.An increase in the PUFA fraction was also observed for the skeletalmuscle from the db/db mice. In contrast to the pattern of PUFA increasesin the ob/ob mice, the shorter chain PUFAs—LA and alpha-linolenicacid—are solely responsible for the PUFA increase in the muscle of thedb/db mice. In adult humans, insulin resistance in obesity and diabeteshas been associated with relatively low proportions of the long chainPUFAs in skeletal tissue (Borkman et al. (1993) New Engl. J. Med.328:238-244; Storlien et al. (1996) Lipids 31: S261-S265), and in redblood cells (Min et al. (2004) Diabetologia 47:75-81) as compared to theamounts found in lean controls.

The biosynthesis of the long chain essential PUFAs from LA andalpha-linolenic acid in mammalian cells is driven by the delta6 anddelta5 desaturases in a series of enlongation and desaturation steps. Inthe absence of insulin (as is the case in untreated type I diabetes),both enzyme activities are down regulated. Brenner (2003) ProstaglandinsLeukot. Essent. Fatty Acids 68:151-162. The condition is corrected onadministration of insulin. Mercuri et al. (1967) Lipids 2: 284-285;Suresh & Das (2003) Nutrition 19:213-228. Although the activity of theenzymes have been well studied in type I diabetes, there is a paucity ofdata concerning their levels and activities in Type II diabetes. In thisstudy, an enzyme activity estimation based on the n-6 PUFA product tosubstrate ratios suggested that while the delta6 desaturase activity maybe increased in some of the obese mice tissues, the enzyme activitymight be reduced in most of the tissues from the db/db mice (see FIG.3). The only exception to the db/db trend was the pancreas where theestimated delta6 activity was increased in comparison with the leancontrols, and neither the estimated delta6 desaturase activity (FIG. 3D)nor delta4 desaturation calculated as DHA to DPA ratio, differedsignificantly from the levels observed in the lean mice. Although thesignificant decrease in estimated delta6 desaturase activity in theother tissues of the db/db mice coincides with a significant reductionin DHA levels (FIG. 4), AA contents were not reduced when compared tothe levels in the lean mice. Furthermore, the lack of distinctionbetween triacylglycerol and phopholipid fractions in most of the tissuesanalysed here makes it difficult to ascertain whether the increases inLA or alpha-linolenic are simply due to increases in triacylglycerolthat favours accumulation of the short chain PUFAs. In the ob/ob liver,the accumulated lipid appears solely in the triacylglycerol fraction.

Nevertheless, the alterations in the tissue content of EFAs in Type IIdiabetes can have some far reaching effects for the prognosis of Type IIdiabetes. On the one hand, the long chain PUFA DHA that is scarce insevere NIDDM, is one of the main precursors for docosatrienes andresolvins that are beneficial for the resolution of both acute andchronic inflammation (Hong et al. (2003) J. Biol. Chem. 278:14677-14687), as well as for disorders involving an inappropriatelyactivated auto-immune response. Calder (1997) Ann. Nutr. Metab.41:203-204. On the other hand, a lipid based-molecule derived from LA bythe action of 15-lipoxygenase-1,13-S-hydrocyoctadecadienoic acid hasbeen shown to be an apoptotic agent. Shureiqi et al. (2003) Proc. Natl.Acad. Sci. USA 100:9968-9973; Nixon et al. (2004) Prostaglandins Leukot.Essent. Fatty Acids 70: 7-15. Taken together, the reduction in DHAcombined with the increase in LA might contribute to enhancing some ofthe long-term complications of diabetes associated with the eye and inpoor wound healing in skeletal muscle. Recently, Brenner and associates(Brenner et al. (2003) Lipids 38:733-742; Montanaro et al (2003) Lipids38:827-832) published work showing that delta6 and delta5 desaturaseactivities are increased in hepatic microsomes of two other Type IIdiabetes model animals.

Only the estimates for delta6 desaturase activity in liver-PL fractionsof the genetic diabetic ob/ob micee studied here agree with the actualenzyme activity measurements in the rat Type II diabetes model animals.

FA metabolism is cell-specific and the both the stearoyl CoA desaturaseand delta6 desaturase activities considered in this study are estimates.It is therefore interesting to determine and compare the actual levelsof expression and activities of the enzymes involved in the lipidhomeostasis in tissues taken from the 3 groups of C57BL mice. There wereclear differences in lipid contents and composition in the tissues fromthe lean, obese and diabetic mice based on the same C57BL-genotype andfed the same diet. Thus, with the exception of the eye, there was anaccumulation of SFA and MUFA in all tissues from the genetically obesemice. In the db/db mice with the more severe form of NIDDM that isassociated with several long-term complications of Type II diabetes. theliver was spared the lipid accumulation and fatty acids-build up of theMUFA subclass was restricted to the eye, adipose tissue and skeletalmuscle. Both the mild and severe forms of NIDDM were associated withPUFA accumulation in the skeletal muscle, although the short chain PUFAswere predominantly responsible for the increases in severe NIDDM. Thesedistortions in the tissue lipids in Type II diabetes may define thepathophysiology of the disease.

Experiment No. 2—Preparation and Administration of Extract: An AnimalStudy

Materials and Methods

Plant Material and Preparation of the Rauvolfia-Citrus Infusion.

The leaves attached to young stems of Rauvolfia vomitoria and freshfruits of Citrus aurantium were collected in Auchi and Ihievbe innorthern Edo state of Nigeria (situated between latitude 70 north of theequator and longitude 60 20′ east). A combination of washed driedfoliage (total weight, 400 g) was arranged in alternate layers withquartered whole citrus fruits (total wet weight 2 kg), in a largealuminium pot. The plant material was then covered with 8 litres of tapwater, brought to the boil, and allowed to simmer covered, at low heatfor 1 h. The resulting golden coloured fluid was cooled to roomtemperature and filtered through coarse filters. The spent plantmaterial was rinsed with 3 litres of water, boiled as before and theresulting tea was also filtered and pooled with the first lot collectedearlier and frozen at −20° C. The total yield was typically 7.5 litres.The pooled plant extract was freeze-dried and the yield was typically 12g dried extract from 1 litre.

Animal Models and Housing Conditions.

The experimental animals used in the treatment experiments were maleinbred diabetic C57BL/KsBom-db mice. The mice are characterised byobesity, hyperphagia, temporal hyperinsulinaemia, degeneration of thepancreatic β-cells with age and hyperglycemia. Due to the insulinresistance observed in these mice, they are considered models of Type IInon-insulin dependent diabetes. The db gene has been identified ascoding for one of the different mice forms of leptin receptors expressedin the hypothalamus. Lee et al. (1996) Nature 379:632-635. Leptin is ahormone secreted by adipocytes that has pleiotypic effects on a numberof body systems including reproduction and metabolism. Chehab et al.(1996) Nature Genetics 12:318-320. A total deficiency in leptin orresistance of the body to the effects of the protein can lead to thedevelopment of severe obesity. Ahima et al. (1996) Nature 382:250-252.The test animals were purchased when they were 5 weeks old, fed onstandard Altromin mice/rat diet until they were 11 weeks old when thetreatment was started. During treatment, both test and control animalswere placed on calorie restriction by being fed with the carbohydrateand fat deficient Altromin C1009 diet.

For the toxicity tests, the Rauvolfia-Citrus infusion was tested on lean6 weeks and 11 weeks old C57BL/6J inbred mice, as well as on lean 6weeks old out-bred NMRI mice. The animals were fed on Altromin 1320standard mice/rat maintenance diet for the duration of the toxicityexperiment.

All the animals were purchased from Bomholtgaard Breeding and ResearchCentre Ltd., Ry, Denmark; housed in groups of 4 per cage, undercontrolled environmental conditions (temperature 25±1° C., relativehumidity 55±5%, with a 12 h dark and 12 h light cycle and air changed 10times/h). The animals were allowed free access to water and the feedstipulated above. Housing and caring followed national guidelines, andthe Danish National Animal Ethics Committee approved the study. Thestudy and all procedures were performed under the guidelines approved bythe Danish Animal Experimental Inspectorate.

Toxicity Tests

The recommended maximum human dose is 3 average drinking-glassfuls perday. On the basis of an average volume of 750 ml per 70 kg body weight,dried extract derived from 770 ml and corresponding to 70 times thehuman daily dose was administered per kg mice. The 70 times measureallows for the factor 10 by which the metabolic rate in mice is fasterthan that in man, and an extra factor of 7 to create an overdose. Theconcentrated extract was administered in one dosage per oral using amouse gavage. The animals were observed continuously for 2 hoursfollowing administration, allowed access to water and food ad libitum,and monitored every 2 days for body weight gain or loss, as well as forfood and water intake per cage. The controls and the test groups werealso monitored weekly for unfasted blood glucose contents, using theBoerhinger Mannheim (Reflolux S) sticks.

Treatment Regimen

Plant extract corresponding to 10 times the maximum human-daily-dosagewas applied daily per oral to the diabetic mice, in a total volume of0.5 ml using a mouse gavage for a period of 6 weeks. Control micereceived the same volume of water. All the animals were observed dailyfor 1 hour after drug or water administration for gross behaviouralchanges, allowed free access to water and food, monitored every 2 daysfor body weight, food and water intake. Unfasted blood glucose contentwas also measured weekly.

Assessing ‘Curing Effect’ of the Treatment and Effect of Post-TreatmentDiet

In the traditional application of the Rauvolfia-Citrus treatment, thepatients are advised to adhere to a healthy diet (low in sugars andfats) and to keep alcohol consumption to a minimum. The ‘curing effect’of the treatment was accessed in 2 groups of db/db mice treated exactlyas described in the treatment regime above. Each of the 2 groups alsoconsisted of 10 test and 10 control mice. After the 6-week treatmentperiod, one group was maintained on the poorer Altromin C1009 diet,while the second group was fed the richer standard Altromin 1314 dietfor a 5-week period without further treatment.

Sample Collection and Analyses

At the end of the specified duration of the experiments, the mice wereether anaesthetized, and blood samples were collected by orbitalpuncture. The animals were then sacrificed and the organs were dissectedout. The blood samples were allowed to clot at room temperature (aboutan hour) and cleared serum samples were collected after high-speedcentrifugation at 4° C. for 30 min. Serum glucose, triglyceride andcholesterol contents were determined for the blood serum samples on theBoehringer Mannheim/Hitachi analytical system. Serum insulin andglucagon content were also determined using the Rat Insulin and GlucagonRIA Kits (Linco Research, Inc.).

The weights of the kidney, liver, pancreas and spleen were determinedfor the animals and specimens of these tissues, as well as the eyes werefrozen in liquid nitrogen and stored at −70° C.

The fatty acid profiles of the eyes from treated and control animalswere later determined as earlier described in Experiment No. 1.

Statistical Analysis

Values are expressed as mean±SD (and sometimes as standard errors).Statistical differences in data from the test and control groups weretested using ANOVA (non-paired t-tests) in Microsoft Excel. Values ofP<0.05 were considered significant.

Experiment No. 2—Results

Toxicity Tests

Upon administration of the single 70× human dose/g mouse weight, theanimals were observed to be very still for the first hour. By the secondhour following the drug intake, all the tested animals were observed tobecome more awake. By the following day, all the test mice were asactive as those in the control groups. However, there were nosignificant differences in final body or organ weights, serumtriglyceride and cholesterol contents in control compared to thetoxicity tested 6 weeks old C57BL/6J and NMRI mice, 4 weeks afteradministration of the plant extract. Although the treated C57BL/6J micehad significantly higher serum glucose content at the end of the 4 weeksobservation period, the serum glucose values of both test and controlstrains was in the normal range (Table 2). This result confirmed thatthe Rauvolfia-Citrus extract is not toxic to young mice of at least 2breeds. TABLE 2 Toxicity tests Results: Body weight, serum triglyceride,cholesterol, and glucose content in 6-week old C57 6J and NMRI micegiven a single administration of a 70× human-daily-dose. The parametersthat showed significant differences between the control and tested miceare highlighted. Body Mice group weight Triglyceride Cholesterol GlucoseC57 6J 29.5 ± 1.6 1.36 ± 0.29 2.43 ± 0.26 5.56 ± 1.37 (control) C57 6J(70× 28.6 ± 2.0 1.25 ± 0.34 2.56 ± 0.29  6.83 ± 0.88* human-dose) NMRI38.1 ± 2.8 1.80 ± 0.37 3.67 ± 0.41 8.71 ± 1.13 (control) NMRI (70× 38.0± 3.8 1.74 ± 0.39 3.77 ± 0.58 9.37 ± 1.45 human-dose)*P < 0.5.

In the toxicity tested 11 weeks old C57BL/6J mice, there was asignificant difference in the weight gain in the treated group ascompared to the control animals (FIG. 6). The difference was morenoticeable just after application of the extract. This is reflected inthe fact that the treated group ate less and drank less than those incontrol group in the observation period (FIGS. 7A and 7B). As thetoxicity tested older C57BL/6J mice showed statistically significantsmaller mean liver weight and a higher (albeit normal levels) serumglucose content, as compared to their control littermates at the end ofthe 4-week observation period (see Table 4), it was concluded thatalthough the plant extract is not toxic to the older mice, it probablyaffects some metabolic processes in the liver of older mice. TABLE 3Toxicity tests results: Body and organ weights, serum triglyceride,cholesterol and glucose contents in 11 weeks old C57 6J mice given asingle administration of a 70× human-daily-dose. The parameters thatshowed significant differences between the control and tested mice arehighlighted. 11-week old C57BL/6J 11-week old C57BL/6J Parameter mice(control) mice (test) Body weight 32.7 ± 2.0  32.3 ± 2.0  Liver weight1.59 ± 0.13 1.43 ± 0.22* Kidney weight 0.18 ± 0.02 0.18 ± 0.02  Spleenweight 0.10 ± 0.02 0.10 ± 0.05  Pancreas weight 0.43 ± 0.06 0.42 ± 0.03 Serum Triglyceride 1.343 ± 0.154 1.346 ± 0.306  Serum Cholesterol 2.6 ±0.2 2.6 ± 0.2  Serum glucose 6.89 ± 0.96 7.64 ± 0.95**P < 0.5.

Treated Diabetic Mice Lost Weight

In the treatment experiment, both the treated and control db/db micelost some body weight following the shift to the poorer diet. However,the weight loss in the treated group was significantly higher than thatobserved in the control group (see FIG. 8). This may have arisen becausethe treated mice drank less and ate less as compared to their controllittermates (see FIGS. 9A and 9B).

Treated Mice Showed Normoglycaemia and Signs of Fat Mobilization

At the end of the 6-week treatment period, the treated group showed aserum glucose level that was closer to the normal range as compared tothe values for the control mice. Interestingly, the treated group alsoshowed significantly higher serum triglyceride values although bothgroups still had very high serum insulin and glucagon levels (see Table3). The increase in serum triglyceride coincided with a 36% reduction inthe total fatty acid content in the eyes of the treated mice (see FIG.10A), as compared to the untreated controls. In particular, thereduction in total fatty acid content was reflected in a 25%, 45% and31% reduction in total saturated fatty acids, MUFAs and PUFAs,respectively. The reduction in the PUFA content of the treated mice eyesseemed to be mainly due to a 62% reduction in the linoleic acid content.Accompanying these significant reductions in fatty acid contents were a33% reduction in the estimated Stearoyl CoA desaturase activity and a72% increase in the estimated delta6 desaturase activity in the treatedmice as compared to their untreated control littermates. The amounts ofeach fatty acid (expressed as % of total fatty acids per mg tissue) inthe eye samples from the treated and untreated control mice arepresented in the Microsoft Excel chart attached as Appendix I.

Effect of Diet on the ‘Cure’ Post-Treatment

At the end of a 5-week post-treatment observation period, the controlmice that were maintained on the poor Altromin C 1009 diet had loweredmean body weight, serum glucose, triglyceride and insulin values whencompared to the values in the treated mice fed the same diet.Interestingly, the mean pancreas weight was significantly higher in thetreated mice (see Table 4), suggesting that the treatment combined witha low calorie-diet may have slowed down the degeneration of pancreaticβ-cells that is characteristic of the C57BL/KsBom-db mice. In contrast,the mice that were fed on the richer standard Altromin 1314 dietpost-treatment promptly put on weight such that at the end of the 5 weekobservation period, there were no differences in the serum glucose andtriglyceride values between this group of treated and control mice.

Experiment No. 2—Discussion

The potential for toxic effect of the Rauvolfia-Citrus herbal remedy wasstudied on in bred and out bred lean mice. Apart from a slowing down ofactivity within the first day of the application of the drug, there wereno significant differences in gross reactions and in the monitoredparameters in 6 weeks old lean outbred NMRI mice or in the inbredC57BL/6J mice given a single administration of a 70× human-daily-dose.R. vomitoria has a strong sedative effect that is used traditionally tocalm psychiatric patients (Sofowora (1982) Medicinal Plants andTraditional Medicine in Africa, Wiley & Sons, Winchester, pp 75-76). Thedrowsiness induced with the high single dose may therefore be due tothese sedative compounds contributed by the R. vomitoria fraction.However, the application of the same dosage to 11 weeks old C57BL/6Jmice gave rise to higher serum glucose and smaller liver weights. Theserum glucose is still in the normal range and the smaller liver weightsobserved in the tested group suggests that although the high dose of theextract is not toxic for older mice, it may be affecting some metabolicprocesses that are perhaps not present or important in younger mice.

At the end of a 6-week treatment period, the treated db/db mice showed amodest body weight loss and a normalization of their blood glucose. Bothcontrol and test mice showed improvements in the weekly glucosetolerance tests, as compared to the pre-treatment status. This suggeststhat the improvement in glucose clearance may be as a result of thecalorie restriction imposed by the Altromin C1009 diet Caloric andnutritional information for this diet is available at the web sitehaving the addressaltromin.de/cgi-bin/diets2.cgi?ansichtsid=C10009&ansicht=normal&diaetart=diaetart=sonder.Compare the standard Altromin 1320 diet available at the web addressaltromin.de/cgi-bin/diets2.cgi?ansichtsid=1320&ansicht=normal&diaetart=standard.Nevertheless, the final serum non-fast glucose was significantly lowerwith the treated mice. Thus, the treatment must have improved theinsulin sensitivity of the treated mice beyond that which would beachieved by calorie restrictions alone.

As the mice were not being fed a lipid supplement, the significantincrease in serum triacylglyceride in the treated db/db mice wasinterpreted to be due to an increase in fatty acid mobilization frominternal stores. This postulate is supported by the significantreduction in fatty acid deposits in the treated mice eye (See FIG. 10A).Citrus aurantium has been reported as containing beta agonists that aidweight loss and enhance thermogenesis. Preuss et al. (2002) J. Med.33:247-264. Beta agonists act on peroxisome proliferator-activatedreceptors (PPARs) decreasing plasma lipids and insulinaemia in obeseanimals. Grimaldi (2003) Biochem. Soc. Trans. 31:1130-1132. PPARs aremolecular censors of dietary fatty and serum lipoproteins and arecentral to controlling many cellular and metabolic processes includingdevelopment, proliferation, differentiation and lipid homeostasis. Thisdata combined with the data generated and reported in Experiment No. 1,supra, certainly support the hypothesis that the Rauvolfia-Citrustreatment reverses this trend in the diabetic lipid homeostasis. Therelease of fatty acids from internal deposits is mediated bytriacylglycerol lipase. Triacylglycerol lipase is in turn activated viacAMP-stimulated phosphorylation carried out by protien kinase. Thereleased fatty acids are then transported via the blood stream totissues for disposal by beta-oxidation in mitochondria with the help ofcarnithine. Although it is yet to be determined what the structure(s) ofthe active compound(s) in the plant extract are, the dependence ofsuccessful treatment on a calorie restriction would suggest that thiscAMP-enhancing condition could be a likely scenario for theanti-diabetic effect of the Rauvolfia-Citrus-based herbal remedy. Theproposed scenario also fits with that proposed for beta agonists ineffecting weight loss and thermogenesis. Preuss et al. (2002) J. Med.33:247-264, and this data that suggest significant decreases inStearoyl-CoA desaturase activity upon treatment.

The results from Experiment No. 1 show that several tissues in Type IIdiabetes show an insufficiency in the long chain polyunsaturated fattyacids, docosahexanoic acid. The estimated increases in delta6 desaturaseactivity reported in this study following treatment of the geneticallydiabetic mice with the plant extract, could lead to the generation ofthe long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids that are essential for properresponse to and resolution of tissue inflammation. If the same processoccurs in humans, it could explain the association of the treatment withhealing as reported in the Nigerian diabetic patients who had used themedication. However, the reduction in eye fatty acid content wassignificant for all classes of fatty acids. This means that in spite ofa reduction in linoleic acid content, combined with an estimatedenhancement in delta6 desaturase activity, there was no accumulation ofthe long chain PUFAs. Indeed, there was a significant albeit smallreduction in arachidonic acid in the treated animals. As the eye lipidswere not separated into triacylglycerol and phospholipid fractions, itis difficult to ascertain if the reduction in linoleic acid was mainlyfrom a triacylglyceric acid pool. Indeed, the lack of increases in thearachidonic acid fraction would support the hypothesis that the linoleicacid pool is being mobilized along with the accumulated MUFAs. Thus,taking into consideration that the test animals were being fed a verypoor diet, the results may look different if the treatment is combinedwith a PUFA diet supplement.

When the animals were kept under further calorie restrictions for a 5week period post-treatment, there was still evidence of lipidmobilization as judged by increased serum triglyceride content.Interestingly, this coincided with a protection of the ‘brittle’ db/dbpancreas typical of this breed of mice. TABLE 4 Effect ofRauvolfia-Citrus extract on body and organ weights, serum triglyceridecholesterol, glucose, insulin and glucagon in bred diabetic C57BL/Ks-dbmice after 6 weeks of treatment and the C1009 Altromin diet. Insulin andglucagon values are expressed as ng ml⁻¹ insulin ± SEM and pg ml⁻¹glucagon ± SEM, respectively. The parameters that showed significantdifferences between the control and tested mice are highlighted.C57BL/KsBom-db mice C57BL/KsBom-db mice Parameter (control) (treated)Body weight 39.4 ± 3.1 38.72 ± 3.7  Liver weight  1.08 ± 0.14 1.04 ±0.12 Kidney weight 0.172 ± 0.01 0.167 ± 0.029 Spleen weight  0.072 ±0.031 0.063 ± 0.018 Pancreas weight 0.309 ± 0.07 0.30 ± 0.07 SerumTriglyceride  1.93 ± 0.56  3.64 ± 2.06* Serum Cholesterol  2.97 ± 0.213.02 ± 0.23 Serum glucose 10.77 ± 2.25  8.4 ± 1.49* Serum Insulin 11.55± 1.89 15.3 ± 1.07 Serum glucagon   258 ± 39.1 340 ± 36 *P < 0.5.

TABLE 5 Effect of diet on the ‘curing effect’ of the treatment inC57BL/Ks-db mice maintained for 5 weeks post-treatment on the poor C1009and richer standard 1314 diet without further drug administration.Insulin and glucagon values are expressed as ng ml⁻¹ insulin ± SEM andpg ml⁻¹ glucagon ± SEM, respectively. The parameters that showedsignificant differences between the control and tested mice arehighlighted. db/db mice db/db mice db/db mice (control) db/db mice(treated) (control) fed (treated) fed fed Standard fed StandardParameter Altromin C1009 Altromin C1009 Altromin 1314 Altromin 1314 Bodyweight 34.9 ± 6.2  37.7 ± 3.2  51.8 ± 2.3  48.3 ± 3.4  Liver weight 1.07± 0.09 1.05 ± 0.4  1.72 ± 0.23 1.62 ± 0.2  Kidney weight 0.17 ± 0.030.17 ± 0.02 0.19 ± 0.02 0.21 ± 0.02 Pancreas weight 0.17 ± 0.05  0.23 ±0.04* 0.27 ± 0.04 0.24 ± 0.34 Serum Triglyceride 1.48 ± 0.3   2.02 ±0.65*  1.3 ± 0.17 1.36 ± 0.38 Serum Cholesterol 2.48 ± 0.22 2.58 ± 0.253.07 ± 0.44 3.42 ± 0.7  Serum glucose 6.61 ± 1.08 7.82 ± 1.75 29.17 ±10.5  30.35 ± 7    Serum Insulin  2.7 ± 0.22 3.87 ± 1.05 7.706 ± 1.41 5.24 ± 2.82 Serum glucagon 282 ± 23  242.6 ± 18   248 ± 36  193 ± 16 *P < 0.5.

Experiment No. 3: A Human Study

At the time of beginning the Rauvolfia-Citrus treatment, “A” was a72-year old male. He was diagnosed Type II diabetic following visiondisturbance about 9 years prior, i.e. when he was about 63 years old. Hewas placed on a daily dose of 3 tablets of glibenese, as well as amedication for high blood pressure. He weighed 91 kg, registered HbA1c8.9 (ref 4.2-6.3), C-peptide 1.89 nmol/l (ref 0.15-1.10) and non-fastblood glucose at 13.7%.

The patient was not satisfied with the anti-diabetes medication he wastaking as he felt lethargic and often weak and tired. A also haddifficulty with maintaining his weight. He stopped glibenese 3 daysbefore commencement of the treatment and took 750 ml (i.e. 3 ordinarydrinking glasses) of the Rauvolfia-Citrus infusion everyday for 4months. He ate healthily, avoiding foods rich in fats, sugar andalcohol. He monitored his blood sugar and blood pressure daily. AttachedFIG. 10 shows the progression in blood sugar levels of A during thetreatment period.

By the end of the first 2 weeks of taking the medicine, he increased hislevel of exercise from 2 walks a day in the park with the dog, to the 2walks and a 3 km trot in the park. He reported a feeling of well-being,better sight and the disappearance of several nodules on his veins. Hestarted to loose weight and at the end of the treatment weighed 78 kg.His doctor permitted him to go off the blood pressure medication after 2months into the Rauvolfia-Citrus treatment. He enjoyed a good winter2002 through to summer 2003, a year after taking and stopping themedication. He has continued to exercise and maintain a healthy diet andabstained from drinking more than the occasional glass or two of wine.However, there was a slight drawback as he registered somehyperglycaemia in the first 2 weeks of September 2003. He blamed thelapse on the many social engagements during the summer holidays. He tooka two-week treatment of the Rauvolfia-Citrus extract in November 2003.He subsequently stabilized at 75 kg, takes one tablet of glibenese aday, when required and at 75, still does the daily 3 km trots and walkswith the dog daily.

The above results show that the medication has “curative” anti-diabeticeffect if taken in combination with exercise and calorie restriction.However, there is a chance of relapse of the Type II diabetes if thepatient does not continue to practice a healthy life-style.

Although the foregoing invention has been described in some detail byway of illustration and example for purposes of clarity ofunderstanding, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art thatcertain changes and modifications will be practiced. Therefore, thedescription and examples should not be construed as limiting the scopeof the invention, which is delineated by the appended claims. Treated1Treated2 Treated3 Treated4 Treated5 Treated6 Treated7 Treated8 Treated9Treated10 korri- korri- korri- korri- korri- korri- korri- korri- korri-korri- Mouse Eye TOTAL-GC geret % geret % geret % geret % geret % geret% geret % geret % geret % geret % C15:0(intern std)PC C10:0 0.00 0.000.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 C12:0 0.00 0.00 0.14 0.00 0.190.10 0.10 0.15 0.23 0.10 C14:0 0.85 1.00 0.96 0.56 1.10 0.93 0.78 1.031.12 0.94 C14:1 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.08 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 ALD?ret.t. 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 ALD ?ret.t.0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 C16:0 19.62 20.5819.37 20.05 20.27 19.60 18.93 19.97 20.43 19.50 C16:1n-9 0.47 0.47 0.500.56 0.55 0.57 0.47 0.51 0.46 0.50 C16:1n-7 3.15 2.25 2.76 2.61 3.772.88 2.13 3.18 2.14 2.52 C17:0 0.15 0.17 0.16 0.23 0.16 0.17 0.16 0.150.17 0.17 C17:1 0.09 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.15 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00C18:0 + aldehyd 14.24 17.62 16.49 15.00 12.84 16.57 18.06 15.86 17.7417.03 C18:1t 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 C18:1n-919.97 15.74 17.18 21.06 21.05 16.48 15.60 16.19 15.28 16.38 C18:1n-72.51 2.62 2.74 3.08 2.59 2.75 2.63 2.53 2.48 2.64 pos.iso.C18:1cis 0.520.69 0.71 0.64 0.44 0.72 0.81 0.50 0.58 0.69 pos.iso.C18:1cis 0.67 0.870.90 0.86 0.52 0.90 1.07 0.64 0.71 0.88 C18:2 n-6 13.30 7.25 8.62 9.4014.72 8.38 7.77 10.76 7.76 8.69 C20:0 + 18:3n-6 0.27 0.29 0.30 0.25 0.210.30 0.34 0.19 0.26 0.28 C18:3 n-6 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.000.00 0.00 0.00 C18:3 n-3 0.27 0.00 0.16 0.00 0.21 0.16 0.00 0.17 0.000.16 C20:1(n-9) 0.62 0.44 0.70 0.33 0.33 0.67 0.96 0.30 0.42 0.72C20:1(n-7)? 0.15 0.16 0.19 0.00 0.00 0.18 0.21 0.00 0.17 0.19 C18:4 0.000.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 C20:2n-6 0.42 0.50 0.430.32 0.42 0.44 0.50 0.48 0.52 0.47 C20:3n-9 0.19 0.23 0.27 0.31 0.170.25 0.27 0.17 0.20 0.21 C20:3n-6 0.36 0.44 0.47 0.39 0.31 0.45 0.490.39 0.39 0.46 C20:4n-6 6.11 8.55 7.73 6.94 5.73 7.83 8.04 7.22 8.177.75 C20:4n-3? 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00C20:5n-3 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 C24:0 0.000.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 C22:4n-6/C24:1 1.07 1.271.31 0.85 0.84 1.32 1.73 1.02 1.18 1.30 C22:5(n-6) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.000.20 0.00 0.21 0.22 0.26 0.20 C22:4n-3? 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.000.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 C22:5n-3 0.56 0.71 0.70 0.68 0.46 0.73 0.76 0.640.67 0.70 ret.t. 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00C22:6n-3 13.97 18.05 16.94 15.78 12.31 17.34 17.70 17.57 18.47 17.30 sum% 99.55 99.92 99.27 99.27 99.61 99.72 99.73 99.84 99.83 99.77 ug ident.Fatty acid- 515.64 290.52 343.29 331.90 366.79 354.43 405.76 341.50302.07 379.70 int. std Weight of eye in mg. 30.54 36.97 36.96 33.4629.25 40.40 43.19 35.00 37.55 35.48 ug ident. Fatty acid(as 16.88 7.869.29 9.92 13.22 8.77 9.39 9.76 8.04 10.70 PC)pr. mg tissue Linoleic acid(as PC) 2.25 0.57 0.80 0.93 1.95 0.74 0.73 1.05 0.62 0.93 pr. mg tissueArachidonic acid (as PC) 1.03 0.67 0.72 0.69 0.76 0.69 0.76 0.70 0.660.83 pr. mg tissue Arachidonic:Linoleic 0.46 1.18 0.90 0.74 0.39 0.931.03 0.67 1.05 0.89 acid ratio Linolenic acid (as PC) 0.05 0.00 0.010.00 0.03 0.01 0.00 0.02 0.00 0.02 pr. mg tissue DHAC (as PC) pr. mg2.36 1.42 1.57 1.57 1.63 1.52 1.66 1.72 1.48 1.85 tissue DHAC:Linolenicacid 51.12 #DIV/0! 106.1429 #DIV/0! 57.63158 109.0714 #DIV/0! 102.6667#DIV/0! 109.6429 ratio Stearoyl CoA desaturase 1.58 1.04 1.21 1.61 1.841.16 1.01 1.18 1.00 1.12 activity Sum of MUFA 3.90 1.48 1.91 2.43 3.171.75 1.80 1.86 1.46 2.11 Sum of PUFA 5.94 2.81 3.28 3.35 4.57 3.12 3.363.67 2.93 3.85 Sum of saturated FA 5.72 3.00 3.33 3.48 4.38 3.17 3.473.50 3.07 3.91 (treated) M49:V49)

1. A biologically active composition consisting essentially of anextract obtained from Rauvolfia vomitoria and Citrus aurantium.
 2. Theextract of claim 1, wherein the extract is separated from the foliageand/or roots of Rauvolfia vomitoria and the fruit of Citrus aurantium.3. A composition comprising the extract of claim 1 and a carrier.
 4. Thecomposition of claim 3, further comprising an effective amount of anagent other than the extract, that lowers tissue fatty acid contents andlowers blood glucose levels.
 5. A process for isolating the extract ofclaim 1 comprising filtering the liquid extract obtained from boiledfoliage of Rauvolfia vomitoria and the fruit of Citrus aurantium.
 6. Amethod for treating or ameliorating the symptoms of abnormally elevatedtissue fatty acid contents and blood glucose levels in a subject,comprising administering to the subject an effective amount of thecomposition of claim
 1. 7. The method of claim 6, further comprisingreducing the daily caloric intake of the subject.
 8. The method of claim6, wherein the symptoms of abnormally elevated blood glucose in asubject are selected from the group consisting of diabetes Type II,abnormal steraroyl-CoA desaturase activity, hyperphagia, abnormal lipidmobilization, abnormal fatty acid profile from the eye of the subject,ulcers and glucosuria.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the subject isan animal.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the animal is selectedfrom the group consisting of a pet, a farm animal or a human patient.11. A kit for treating or ameliorating the symptoms of a disorderassociated abnormally elevated levels of blood glucose in a subjectcomprising a therapeutically effective amount of the extract of claim 1and instructions for use.
 12. The kit of claim 11, wherein the disorderis selected from the group consisting of blood glucose in a subject areselected from the group consisting of diabetes Type II, abnormalsteraroyl-CoA desaturase activity, hyperphagia, abnormal lipidmobilization, abnormal fatty acid profile from the eye of the subject,ulcers and a glucosuria.